Zelphia Grissett remembers her eighth-grade teacher for his futuristic science lessons, challenging students beyond the curriculum and sharing his knowledge with such zest that it inspired her to become an educator.

Southport | The Southport-Oak Island area is getting its first Walgreens, according to Amy Nelson, Southport city planner.The new store will go up along N.C. 211 in front of the Lowe’s Home Improvement Center and beside Bank of America. It’s expected to be finished in fall or winter, she said.Site preparation has begun.